GREENSTONE – Pepper the Penguin drew in close to 250 people who caught 20 fish on Kenogamisis Lake during GGM’s first ever held Family Fun Fishing Day. The event took place on Monday, February 19th during the Family Day Holiday which coincided with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resource and Forestry’s designated license-free period. Although the weather was a bit frigid, people of all ages dressed for the occasion and enjoyed the outdoors.
There were prizes awarded for longest fish of any species in both the adult and child categories. The adult category First Place Eskimo Ice Hut Tent prize was won by Noah Stark, Second Place prize Family Fishing Gear was won by Sterling Lesperance and Third Place prize Turkey Deep-Fryer was won by Ida Shawanamash. The child category First Place Ryde Thunder Snow Bike prize was won by Ashton Forgette, Second Place Snow-Shoes prize was won by Emilie Kelner and the Third Place Ice-Fishing Gear was won by Barrett Alton. GGM’s Door Prize draw, a locally made Custom Fire Pit was won by Yvonne Johnson. Congratulations to all prize winners!
Fun prizes were awarded throughout the event as names were drawn just for taking part and having fun! Although there were many people ice-fishing, others also undertook other activities such as igloo-building, roasting marshmallows at the warming stations or taking selfies in the GGM Family Day Photo Booth. The hot cocoa and warm hot dogs were appreciated by all.
A long time Geraldton resident told Greenstone Gold Mining, “This is how Geraldton used to celebrate winter many many years ago, simple family enjoyment outdoors” encouraging GGM to continue with family-focused efforts.
The success of the event would not have been possible without the support of the community at large and the support of local organizations and businesses, not to mention the GGM spouses who volunteered their time.
GGM learned a great deal from the event and will endeavour to improve logistics for next year. Pepper may even make an appearance…stay tuned!
